KUCHING – Warm congratulations were extended to the martial arts community in Sarawak on Tuesday as state leadership acknowledged the successful organisation of a major regional sporting event.
The 3rd East Malaysia Open Tang Soo Do Championship 2026 has been hailed as a significant milestone for local athletes and organisers alike.
The message of support was delivered by YB Dato Ir. Lo Khere Chiang, the Assemblyman for N13 Batu Kitang.
He attended the occasion as the representative of the Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who also serves as the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government.
Dr Sim was unable to attend in person due to conflicting official commitments but ensured his sentiments were conveyed through his appointed proxy.
In his address, Dato Ir. Lo began by conveying personal greetings from the Deputy Premier. He expressed regret that Dr Sim could not be present to witness the event firsthand but emphasised the minister’s strong support for the development of sports within the state.
The representation underscored the government’s continued interest in fostering community-based athletic initiatives.
On behalf of Datuk Amar Dr Sim, Dato Ir. Lo extended heartfelt congratulations to the Kuching Tang Soo Do Association. The association was praised for its diligence and organisational capability in bringing the championship to fruition.
Hosting an open championship of this magnitude requires substantial logistical planning and coordination, efforts which were recognised by the state representative.
Tang Soo Do, a Korean martial art known for its emphasis on discipline, self-defence, and physical fitness, has seen growing participation across East Malaysia.
The open nature of the championship allows competitors from various backgrounds and regions to compete, promoting both sporting excellence and cultural exchange.
Such events provide a valuable platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and gain competitive experience.
The involvement of senior political figures in sporting events often highlights the broader social benefits of martial arts.
Beyond physical health, disciplines like Tang Soo Do instil values of respect, perseverance, and community spirit. These attributes align with wider societal goals of building resilient and healthy communities.
Dato Ir. Lo’s presence at the event also highlighted the connection between local representatives and grassroots organisations.
As the Assemblyman for Batu Kitang, his engagement with local associations demonstrates a commitment to supporting community activities that enrich the lives of constituents.
The championship serves not only as a sporting contest but also as a community gathering that strengthens social bonds.
The success of the 3rd East Malaysia Open Tang Soo Do Championship reflects the growing maturity of the local martial arts scene.
With consistent support from both private associations and public officials, such events are likely to continue expanding in scale and prestige. This growth contributes to Sarawak’s reputation as a hub for diverse sporting activities in the region.
As the competition proceeded, participants demonstrated high levels of skill and sportsmanship, validating the efforts of the organisers.
The acknowledgment from the Deputy Premier’s office serves as an encouragement for the Kuching Tang Soo Do Association to continue its work in promoting the sport. Future editions of the championship are anticipated to draw even greater participation and attention.
The day’s proceedings reinforced the importance of collaboration between government representatives and civil society groups.
By celebrating these achievements, state leaders signal their dedication to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for citizens to excel in their chosen fields.
The championship stands as a testament to what can be achieved through dedicated organisation and community support.
